Just a couple of quibbles here.
I don't know if I'd call Christie a conservative Republican. The jury is still out on that. He ran primarily as the non-Corzine. And the last two GOP governors of NJ, Whitman and Kean, would certainly be considered as typical northeastern RINOs.
Then, too, I wouldn't use the word "handily" to describe a 4 point margin. It's important to stay objective.
I agree that one of the main reasons for the Christie victory was Corzine's foolish campaign strategy. Instead of trying to distance himself from Obama, he not only embraced him but had Obama operatives running his campaign - not realizing that this time around Obama was toxic.
Christie IS a conservative. The FIRST group he addressed upon election was a surprise appearance at the pro-life New Jersey Family Policy annual dinner.
Gov-elect Chris Christie assures Family Policy group: "NJ has a proudly pro-life governor”
FR Posted by Liz 11/7/09
Governor-elect Chris Christie made a surpise appearance at the New Jersey Family Policy annual dinner. Gov Christie thanked the audience for all of the work done on behalf of New Jersey families. Christie told the New Jersey Family Policy group about his own family and his kids and spoke about their shared values.
Governor-elect Christie graciously acknowledged all of the New Jersey Family Policy award recipients and made special note of the Legislator of The Year Award winner----pro-life Assemblyman Jay Webber. Assemblyman Webber has agreed to serve as the New Jersey Republican Party Chairman, thus placing pro-life issues at the center of the seat of power in New Jersey.
Governor-elect Christie promised to fight for family values. He will work for parental notification so that 13-year old children would need parental permission before obtaining an abortion.
Governor elect Christie brought the New Jersey Family Policy audience to their feet when he told them that "New Jersey has a proudly pro-life governor.” There was a full two minute standing ovation.
Governor elect Christie also promised to veto any proposal to impose gay marriage on the people of the State.
Assurance that changes in Trenton are eminent.
In a solid Dem state (and for all the resaons stated in the post)---a 4-point win is amazing.
BTW, that factors in massive Dem fraud.....including 20,000 paid union workers on the ground election day "getting out the vote."
Not to mention the WH's 24/7 input......and giving Corzine $17.5 Billion stim.